Living the eclectic life means meeting people from all walks of life and all corners of Knysna. It’s been an invaluable experience hearing people’s stories and views from a different standpoint. Running parallel to having previously posted the Deputy Mayor’s interview, i introduce you to one of our highest ranking politicians, and event organizer, Ralph Stander.

WM: Does your promotion to a provincial position of the ANC keep you away from Knysna much?
A: Yes. I’m spending lots of time away from home, especially in Cape Town.

WM: Do you enjoy the travel? Has it taught you anything?
A: I wouldn’t say that but it gives me lots of time to think and talk on the cell.

WM: What was it like playing golf with Jacob Zuma?
A: LMAO:) I didn’t play golf with him. He just opened the event and was the host of the dinner.

WM: You formalized your eventing company as Eden Events. What are your goals with it?
A: Eden Events does all kind of events, from golf days to festival. It will also play a role in taking events to townships all over the province/country.

WM: What do you do to relax?
A: What’s that? LOL. I play golf…or at least chip:) I love the sea breeze.

WM: When you need a break to eat, where are you most likely to go and what do you like most about them?
A:I love seafood. I like the fresh food at Chaplin’s in Woodmill Lane but eat almost anything.

WM: You live in Hornlee. What the best things about your suburb?
A: Being close to the people. There’s nothing like loving one’s culture. I won’t fit in a “white” suburb.

WM: What would you most like to change there?
A: Crime is always a problem in townships…and there’s far too much poverty!

WM: Describe the best thing that ever happened to you in Knysna?
A: Living and growing up here is the best thing.

To read The KEEP’s political interview with Ralph Stander, click here.